Overview #
Maintaining strong security practices for your WordPress admin accounts is critical to protecting your website from unauthorized access, malware, and brute-force attacks. This article outlines essential steps to improve admin account security by removing the default “admin” username, enabling two-factor authentication (2FA), and limiting admin access to only necessary users.
Step 1: Remove Default “admin” Usernames #
Why This Matters: #
The username “admin” is a common default and a known target for brute-force attacks. Removing or renaming this account reduces your vulnerability.
How to Remove or Replace “admin”: #
- Create a New Admin User:
- Go to Users → Add New
- Use a unique username, strong password, and valid email
- Assign the role of Administrator
- Click Add New User
- Log Out of the “admin” Account
- Log In as the New Admin User
- Delete the Old “admin” Account:
- Go to Users, hover over the old “admin” user, and click Delete
- Reassign all content to the new admin account when prompted
✅ Your site is now more secure against automated login attempts targeting the “admin” username.
Step 2: Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) #
Why This Matters: #
2FA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second step—like a code from an app—in addition to your password. Even if your password is compromised, 2FA keeps attackers out.
Recommended 2FA Plugins for WordPress: #
- WP 2FA (by WP White Security)
- Two Factor Authentication (by UpdraftPlus)
- Wordfence (includes 2FA as part of its security suite)
How to Set Up 2FA: #
- Install and activate your preferred 2FA plugin
- Go to Users → Your Profile or the plugin’s settings
- Scan the QR code using an authentication app like Google Authenticator, Authy, or Microsoft Authenticator
- Save the recovery codes in a secure location
- Verify setup and complete activation
📌 Require 2FA for all administrators and editors at a minimum.
Step 3: Limit Admin Access to Necessary Users Only #
Why This Matters: #
The fewer admin-level users you have, the smaller your attack surface. Not every user needs full access to your website settings.
How to Audit and Adjust User Roles: #
- Go to Users → All Users
- Review all users with the Administrator role
- Remove or downgrade roles for users who no longer need full access
- Editors can manage content without changing site settings
- Contributors can submit content for review without publishing
- Delete inactive accounts or those no longer in use
📌 Use a plugin like User Role Editor to customize user roles and permissions as needed.
Additional Security Tips: #
✅ Use strong, unique passwords for all user accounts
✅ Monitor login activity and failed login attempts
✅ Limit login attempts using a plugin or firewall settings
✅ Regularly review user roles and permissions
Conclusion #
Following these steps to secure your WordPress admin accounts will greatly reduce your risk of unauthorized access and help maintain the integrity of your website. Make removing “admin,” enabling 2FA, and limiting user access a standard part of your site security checklist.